Business Briefcase

May 06, 2008 03:00 am

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Carter named Unsung Hero

Stephen E. Carter, Greater Beverly Housing manager for the North Shore YMCA, has been named the North Shore United Way's Unsung Hero for 2008.

Carter manages 128 units of housing, including all of the single rooms in the Cabot Street YMCA and family housing on Rantoul Street, as well as at the Mayflower Hotel. He also manages properties on Mill and Grant streets in Gloucester Crossing that are being developed into affordable housing complexes with the Beverly Affordable Housing Coalition.

"Steve Carter has been singled out not only for his commitment to affordable housing but for the exemplary and compassionate way he provides support and services to the YMCA's tenants," said Margo Casey, North Shore United Way president, in a statement. "Steve grew up in a housing project in Gloucester, and he understands firsthand the plight of poor families."

An active community volunteer, Carter coached girl's basketball in Gloucester for 15 years, until stepping down last year, and coordinated a couple of youth leagues. He has been tending the flower and organic vegetable gardens at Wellspring House in Gloucester for the past four years.

A lifelong resident, Carter lives in Gloucester with his wife, Karen, who works at the Gloucester Housing Authority. They have three grown children, Steve, Rachel and Kevin.

Lieser named Volunteer of the Year

The YMCA of the North Shore named George Lieser of Rockport as the recipient of its Volunteer of the Year Award. Each year the YMCA chooses one person who exemplifies the mission of the YMCA through their work with the organization.

Lieser has served on the Cape Ann Board since 1989, on the Beverly Regional YMCA Board from 1995-1999 and on the North Shore YMCA Board since its inception in 1999. He was also president of the Cape Ann YMCA Board from 1997 to 2000 and has been an officer and served on the executive committee of the North Shore YMCA since 2002.

"He has always understood the needs in our communities, always knowing that his actions and his energy could and would make a huge difference for deserving kids and families," said Beth Francis, chief development officer for the YMCA of the North Shore, in a statement. "His passionate efforts inspire all of us and his commitment to the Y is evident in our fundraising efforts, which allow the Y to have a greater community impact."

More than five years ago Lieser embarked on a quest to build a teen center in his hometown of Rockport. Almost single-handedly he convinced town government to get involved monetarily, navigated a complicated site selection process and spearheaded a $420,000 fundraising campaign. He oversaw the construction of the center and was integrally involved in the opening and launch of the successful teen and youth center.

"George is a person who, year in and year out, has worked tirelessly for his Y and his community. Someone, who through his extraordinary effort and dedication, has left this small corner of the world a better more hopeful place," fellow board member David McKechnie of Gloucester said in a statement. "Today the Ben Beyea Teen Center stands as a testimony to his commitment, drive, talent and heart.

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